Disha Shah Ghosh - Mumbai Destination DC, the destination marketing organisation of Washington DC, has seen a growth of 50% in visitations from India, year-on-year during 2023.
Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO, Destination DC, during his recent visit to Mumbai, said, “India ranks no 4 in terms of visitations, and we have seen 147,000 Indians during 2023 that is a 50℅ growth over 2022, and 11℅ hike over 2019.”
He said these visitors landed directly into the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. “The key for us is how we continue direct flights from key cities in to Dallas. Leisure is a predominant proportion of inflow into the US, and MICE vertical is a growing opportunity, and business travel continues to be going strong.”
Citing example of changing traveller preferences, he said that in the past the East Coast and West Coast of the USA were the preferred choices by Indians for exploration. “But now with direct air access, travellers want to explore newer destinations, indulge in enriching local experiences and explore local farm to fork options.”
With regards to their strategy for the B2B market, he said, “We are keen to increase frequency of visits, the number of destinations that one visits, increase average length of stay and boost visitor spending. In that direction, we are working with operators to equip them with better tools and content to share with their client. Additionally, air connections will only further aid travel to the USA. Our airport authorities are always seeking newer destinations, and we are supportive of their endeavours.”
